Top Axle Strut (Steel Spring)
Removing and installing top axle strut - steel spring
Removal
1. Remove respective front wheel and fasten top axle strut with a tension jack VW 552. This involves tensioning axle strut slightly because top ball joint can otherwise get damaged. By doing this, the tension jack is mounted into the top opening of the wheel house (double panel) and in the axle strut. This only has to be done if the same axle strut is reinstalled.
2. Pull off HBA connector.
3. Release fastening nut and press ball joint rod off with press-out tool T 10187.
4. Unscrew fastening screws and remove axle strut.
5. If control arm does not have to be used again, HBA sensor must be fitted on new control arm.
Installation
Caution! Danger of injury and material damage if the wheel carrier is raised incorrectly!
^ Do not raise the wheel suspension higher than the normal vehicle position (vehicle resting on wheels)!
^ When raising, use a suitable intermediate layer (hard rubber)!
^ Do not damage the brake cover plate!
Note!
^ The entire threaded parts of the axle must be tightened in vehicle position! Vehicle position means: vehicle standing on the wheels, or the wheel suspension is raised with a universal vehicle lift! -Dimension X-, from lower edge of wing to middle of axle 502 mm ± 10 mm corresponds to vehicle position!
^ Use an intermediate layer (hard rubber)! Do not damage the brake cover plate!
^ Screws are Dacromet-coated and must not be greased!
^ Grease the toothing of the drive shaft with aluminum paste Optimoly TA!
^ Drive shafts must not be left hanging from the joint stop! Support wheel carriers!
^ Use new screws and fastening nuts!
^ Ensure that ball joint rod conical seats are clean! If necessary, clean with lint-free cloth! Do not use cleaning agent!
^ Use correct tightening torques!
1. Install HBA sensor.
2. Insert top axle strut and securing bolts. Install fastening nuts.
3. Insert wheel carrier in the ball joint rod and tighten.
4. Connect HBA connector and install front wheel.